Legal Definitions - perpetuity of the king

Definition: The perpetuity of the king or queen is a legal fiction in English law that states that the monarch is immortal in terms of their office. This means that even though a monarch may die, the office is never vacant and a new monarch immediately takes their place.

Example: When Queen Elizabeth II passes away, her son Prince Charles will immediately become the new king of England. This is because of the perpetuity of the king, which ensures that there is always a monarch on the throne.

Explanation: The perpetuity of the king is a concept that has been in place in English law for centuries. It ensures that there is always a monarch on the throne, which provides stability and continuity for the country. When a monarch dies, their successor immediately takes their place, which means that there is no gap in leadership. This is important for political and social reasons, as it ensures that the country can continue to function smoothly even during times of transition.